The factors that keep people liking and loving each other in long-term relationships are at least in part the same as the factors that lead to initial attraction. Yet the principles of social psychology can still be applied to help us understand what makes these relationships last. When good friendships develop, when people get married and plan to spend the rest of their lives together, and when families grow closer over time, the relationships take on new dimensions and must be understood in somewhat different ways. But the basic principles of social psychology can also be applied to help us understand relationships that last longer. To this point in the chapter, we have focused upon the attraction that occurs between people who are initially getting to know one another. Explore key factors that contribute to the ending of close relationships.Review some important factors that can help romantic relationships to be successful.Consider the impact of Internet behaviors on intimate relationships.Outline the role of attachment style in close relationships.
Review research on romantic love and attention to others.Explore Sternberg’s triangular model of love.Distinguish between communal and exchange relationships.Outline the factors that define close relationships.
